Based in Philadelphia, Michael’s Giving H.A.N.D. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization focused on helping teens, parents, counselors and teachers recognize and understand anxiety disorders and depression. Established in 2016 by the Michael P. Donatucci Foundation, Inc., Michael’s Giving H.A.N.D. seeks to bring anxiety and depression out of the shadows so that we can erase the stigma associated with these illnesses. With the support of our mental health partners – Temple Health and Drexel Medicine – we educate the Greater Philadelphia community on adolescent anxiety and depression through our High School Outreach Program. In addition, we help teens and their families navigate these illnesses through our Adolescent Mental Health Counseling Program with Jefferson Health. Through these two programs, we are able to bridge the gap that exists with most education-based, non-profit organizations, going beyond information to action.
Our Mission
Our purpose is very clear as we strive toward a stigma-free future. We meet this challenge head-on, with a passion and dedication greater than the challenge itself. We will not rest until we have erased the stigma associated with mental illnesses. To achieve our mission, we embark upon four action-oriented paths:
Educate.
Knowledge is power which is why we promote awareness of anxiety disorders and depression through our High School Outreach Program. We offer engaging presentations in partnership with our mental health faculty from the leading health care systems in the Greater Philadelphia region.
Navigate.
We have identified and vetted valuable resources to help you navigate the abundance of information found on the internet – the likes of which can produce anxiety as you wade through it all. In addition, through our Adolescent Mental Health Counseling Program, we provide financial assistance for the mental health evaluation for teenagers seeking help. The path to finding a mental health professional and obtaining the treatment necessary for a healthier future should not be cluttered with barriers. Together, we can and will break through these barriers.
Advocate.
Bringing anxiety and depression out of the darkness is a team effort. We work with healthcare professionals, educators, mental health advocates, community organizations, elected officials and individuals to advocate for comprehensive educational programs and equal access to much-needed care for these illnesses.
Eliminate.
One of the most important goals of Michael’s Giving H.A.N.D. is to eliminate the stigma surrounding anxiety and depression. We aspire to foster compassionate communication, increase medical access, and create universal awareness for anxiety disorders and depression. No one should ever suffer in silence or feel ashamed. Anxiety and depression are disorders; they are not choices.
Together, with your support, we will make a difference in the lives of teenagers who struggle with anxiety and depression. To arrange a presentation for your organization, seek additional resources or partner with our mission, please contact our Executive Director,
Lisa M. Pflaumer, at lisa@michaelsgivinghand.org